Equine Therapy Research Paper

Equine therapy is also popular in therapy programs for children with special needs. This therapy improves the patient's fine motor skills because they must fasten buckles, brush the horse, hold the reins, hold on to a saddle, and tie ropes. Gross motor skills, which are the larger muscle skills such as arms and legs, are also improved through the patient mounting, dismounting, and placing their feet in stirrups (Burch). When special needs children first arrive to the arena where the horses are, they are normally fearful. It takes a lot of courage for them to mount the horse and this can encourage them to face their fears in other areas of their life. But when they do finally gather the courage to get in the saddle, they are transformed. The
The release of endorphins is thought to be the reasoning behind these results. Even just petting the horses releases the natural neurotransmitter that stimulates the feeling of joy (Thurber-Smith). In many instances, being around the animals allows the children to forget their special needs and instead feel acceptance and as if they are a part of something. A specific example of how influential this therapy can be is the story of Meghan Dixon. Meghan was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome when she was young and always had trouble making friends. She was bullied and even felt suicidal at certain points of her life. Then one day, her and her mother started taking care of abused horses (Dixon). While working with the horses or riding she was able to forget her troubles and worries. She says it was a “pivotal point” in her life (Dixon). Through taking care of the horses by herself, riding on her own, and competing in competitions, her self esteem was bolstered. The horses have even allowed her to make connections with humans and begin to trust people again. She can now see the good in people who do not pass judgment and have similar interests that brought them together